Microsoft downloads installing on external drive and not programs

[Neil2305]

Can anyone help?

The 'installation drive' of Microsoft software seems to be 'corrupt' and tries to install on an external hard drive - how do I get it to revert back to C: Programs etc?

Downloads work fine... copying to desktop etc all seem fine... as does other software.... but with Microsoft software it tries to install on an external hard drive....

help?

 

[Berton]

Most Microsoft programs like to install on the System drive, where Windows is installed which is usually C: but could be a different drive. Maybe the External drive has been recycled from previous use and the files simply deleted instead of truly cleaning it by deleting the partition/s and recreating then formatting? That can be done in Computer Management, Disk Management, just be careful to choose the correct drive letter. Deleting the partition should get rid of any residual system files on the drive. But be sure to save any data that you want to keep first as everything will be deleted.

Also, most programs allow a Custom install where you can choose the drive or partition on a drive to use.

Windows 32-bit installs programs in C:\Program Files.
Windows 64-bit installs in either C:\Program Files for 64-bit versions or C:\Program Files (x86) for 32-bit versions, both will be on the HDD.

 

[Neil2305]

Thanks Berton...

The files should be installed on the C:/ and not sure how to change from installing from external drive...

I read your comment above and can view the relevant Disk Management but don't know what I am looking for... to change...